Local women honoured during celebration

TRURO – Three local women were honoured in Truro on Friday for inspiring others and giving back to their communities.

During this year’s Women’s Day Soiree, hosted by the Holiday Inn, three local women were recognized for their contributions to the community. From left, Cathy von Kintzel, Denise Miller and Susan Henderson.

Susan Henderson, Denise Miller and Cathy von Kintzel received recognition during an International Women’s Day event at the Holiday Inn.

“I’ve never been nominated for anything before and never had a makeover before,” said a smiling von Kintzel. “This is overwhelming.

“I knew Susan before this and I got to know Denise. We never have time to pamper ourselves, so to be pampered for two days was amazing.”

The women appeared at the soiree wearing an outfit provided by Elegant Steps and jewelry by Beck and Boosh. They received a manicure, pedicure, had make up applied and their hair styled by Life Salon Spa. They also received a family portrait session from Portraits by Johanna, a one-hour session at Vital Relaxation, a gift from Above and Beyond and a meal at the Holiday Inn.

Von Kintzel, the special events and culture co-ordinator for the Town of Truro, volunteers as the co-ordinator for the Tatamagouche Oktoberfest, secretary of the Tatamagouche minor hockey association and is the co-chairwoman of the enhancement fundraising committee for the new P-12 school.

“We were honoured for inspiring others but I think we’re active because we’re inspired by our communities,” von Kintzel added. “I really appreciate the Holiday Inn doing all of this to celebrate women.”

More than $1,700 was raised with the money going to charities chosen by the women.

“I chose the Colchester East Hants Hospice Society,” said von Kintzel. “I have no personal connection with it, but I’ve seen it grow and there is a warm, comfortable feeling about its programs, services and people.”

Susan Henderson’s charity of choice was the Colchester Mental Health Association, where she works.

“This whole event has been wonderful,” she said. “I was completely surprised when I heard I was being honoured. I’ve never had a manicure or pedicure before and I’ve been treated like a princess the last couple of days.

“There are so many deserving women in the community,” she added. “I’m amazed at the power of the women in the area. My heart is just full.”

Denise Miller, who works at Patterson Law, is president of the Maitland Fire Department’s auxiliary. She chose the department as her charity.